Global Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Size

• The global commercial soft-serve machines market size was valued at USD 1.37 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.15 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.80% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fuelled by the increasing popularity of frozen desserts in quick-service restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores, along with advancements in machine automation, energy efficiency, and compact designs that meet the evolving needs of food service operators

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Analysis

• The rising demand for customizable dessert offerings and low-fat frozen alternatives is contributing to the growing adoption of commercial soft-serve machines across multiple food service formats
• Technological improvements such as touch screen interfaces, energy-saving modes, and real-time monitoring capabilities are enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement
• North America dominated the commercial soft-serve machines market with the largest revenue share of 37.9% in 2024, driven by the widespread presence of QSR chains, ice cream parlors, and convenience stores across the region
• Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate in the global commercial soft-serve machines market, driven by increasing urbanization, a booming foodservice industry, and the rising popularity of frozen desserts among younger demographics across countries such as China, India, and Japan
• The floor model segment dominated the market with the largest market revenue share in 2024, attributed to its high output capacity and widespread adoption in large-scale food service establishments. Floor models are preferred in high-traffic locations such as quick-service restaurants and cafeterias where continuous dispensing is essential. Their robust construction and ability to accommodate dual flavors or mix-ins also make them an optimal choice for operators looking to diversify dessert offerings and serve a high volume of customers efficiently

Report Scope and Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Segmentation  

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Trends

“Adoption of Compact and Energy-Efficient Machines in Quick-Service Outlets”

• Compact and countertop soft-serve machines are gaining traction in quick-service restaurants (QSRs), food trucks, and small-format retail due to their space-saving designs
• Energy-efficient components such as variable-speed compressors, improved insulation, and low-GWP refrigerants are becoming standard in new models
• Rising electricity costs and increased awareness about carbon emissions are prompting operators to seek machines that lower utility expenses
• The integration of smart sensors and automated energy-saving modes allows businesses to reduce idle-time consumption without affecting output
  • For instance, Carpigiani introduced its “191 Classic” model in 2023, a compact soft-serve machine with energy-saving standby features and low-noise operation, which has been widely adopted by urban QSR chains

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Dynamics

Driver

“Rising Demand for Frozen Desserts Across Quick-Service Restaurants and Cafés”

• The global appetite for frozen treats is expanding rapidly, especially among millennials and Gen Z who favor customization and on-the-go formats
• QSRs and café chains are diversifying dessert menus with innovative flavors, vegan options, and seasonal offerings, driving demand for soft-serve equipment
• Soft-serve machines allow businesses to serve high-margin products such as sundaes, cones, and blended desserts with fast output and minimal staff training
• The machines are also increasingly used in self-service models, enabling customers to personalize their orders and reduce labor overhead
  • For instance, McDonald’s introduced dessert kiosks across Southeast Asia, significantly increasing machine deployment across franchise locations to meet the surge in demand for customizable frozen offerings

Restraint/Challenge

“High Initial Investment and Maintenance Costs for Small Operators”

• Quality commercial soft-serve machines often range from USD 6,000 to USD 20,000, making them a significant investment for small businesses
• Regular maintenance is critical for hygiene, performance, and compliance with food safety standards, but often incurs high service fees and downtime
• Smaller businesses may lack access to skilled technicians, especially in emerging markets, which can lead to operational delays and equipment damage
• High power consumption and component wear-and-tear, such as beater motors and compressors, also increase the total cost of ownership over time
  • For instance, a boutique café in the U.K. faced recurring breakdowns during summer 2023 due to lack of access to certified technicians, causing a 15% dip in monthly revenue

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of type and application.

• By Type

On the basis of type, the commercial soft-serve machines market is segmented into countertop model and floor model. The floor model segment dominated the market with the largest market revenue share in 2024, attributed to its high output capacity and widespread adoption in large-scale food service establishments. Floor models are preferred in high-traffic locations such as quick-service restaurants and cafeterias where continuous dispensing is essential. Their robust construction and ability to accommodate dual flavors or mix-ins also make them an optimal choice for operators looking to diversify dessert offerings and serve a high volume of customers efficiently.

The countertop model segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, driven by increasing adoption in small cafés, food trucks, and convenience stores. These machines are compact, cost-effective, and easy to install, which suits businesses with limited space or moderate customer flow. Their portability and plug-and-play features appeal especially to seasonal businesses and new market entrants looking for flexibility without significant infrastructure investments.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the commercial soft-serve machines market is segmented into catering industry, entertainment venue, and others. The catering industry segment held the largest market revenue share in 2024, fueled by rising demand for soft-serve desserts in institutional catering, hotels, and fast-casual dining. Catering businesses value the reliability, output speed, and customization options that commercial soft-serve machines offer, which are essential for large-scale food preparation and customer service.

The entertainment venue segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, due to growing deployment of soft-serve equipment in amusement parks, cinemas, and event spaces. These machines enhance the on-site food and beverage experience, particularly during peak footfall seasons. Their integration with self-service kiosks and minimal operator involvement also contributes to improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency in dynamic entertainment environments.

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the commercial soft-serve machines market with the largest revenue share of 37.9% in 2024, driven by the widespread presence of QSR chains, ice cream parlors, and convenience stores across the region

• The rising demand for frozen desserts, coupled with increasing consumer preferences for quick and personalized service, supports continued adoption of soft-serve machines

• Manufacturers in the region are introducing technologically advanced machines with energy efficiency, self-cleaning features, and touchscreen interfaces to meet evolving customer expectations

• The North American market benefits from strong distribution networks and brand loyalty among consumers, particularly in the U.S. and Canada

• The presence of major soft-serve machine manufacturers and a culture of food innovation further reinforce the region's market leadership

U.S. Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The U.S. commercial soft-serve machines market captured the largest revenue share of 83.5% in North America in 2024, driven by the thriving fast-food industry and increasing number of frozen yogurt and dessert outlets. Consumers in the U.S. increasingly demand customized soft-serve offerings, prompting establishments to invest in efficient, multi-flavor dispensing systems. Technological innovations, such as touchless dispensing and real-time maintenance alerts, are gaining traction in urban centers. In addition, favorable health trends have led to the launch of low-fat and dairy-free soft-serve options, expanding the customer base and spurring equipment upgrades in commercial outlets.

Europe Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The Europe commercial soft-serve machines market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, supported by the continent’s rich café culture and an expanding frozen dessert segment. Key countries such as Germany, Italy, and France are witnessing increased installations of compact, energy-efficient soft-serve machines in cafes, food trucks, and casual dining establishments. Local consumers are drawn to the artisanal dessert experience, encouraging businesses to offer innovative frozen treat options. Sustainability regulations and energy efficiency standards are also influencing equipment upgrades across the European foodservice sector.

U.K. Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The U.K. commercial soft-serve machines market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, driven by the rising popularity of frozen desserts and the expansion of dessert parlors and kiosks. Businesses are investing in compact countertop models to accommodate space constraints and improve operational efficiency in high-footfall areas such as shopping centers and transportation hubs. Furthermore, the rise of vegan and health-conscious dessert trends is encouraging the adoption of machines capable of handling plant-based and low-calorie mixes.

Germany Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The Germany is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, with growth supported by the country’s vibrant foodservice industry and increasing demand for high-quality frozen dessert offerings. German operators value reliability and energy efficiency in equipment, leading to a preference for advanced floor model soft-serve machines with built-in diagnostics and self-cleaning systems. In addition, the trend of seasonal pop-up shops and mobile food trucks offering premium frozen desserts is contributing to greater machine deployment across urban and suburban locations.

Asia-Pacific Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific commercial soft-serve machines market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, driven by a rising middle-class population, growing disposable incomes, and the westernization of dessert consumption habits in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea. International and domestic dessert chains are rapidly expanding across the region, necessitating high-capacity, easy-to-operate machines. Government initiatives promoting tourism and food retail development also fuel demand for frozen dessert equipment in high-traffic commercial zones.

Japan Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The Japan commercial soft-serve machines market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, supported by a strong inclination towards product quality, hygiene, and technological precision. Japanese consumers value visually appealing and unique soft-serve presentations, which encourages equipment innovation focused on precision temperature control and advanced dispensing techniques. Compact machine models are particularly popular in urban foodservice setups, and demand is strong in convenience stores, which often offer soft-serve products as impulse buys.

China Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Insight

The China led the Asia-Pacific region in terms of revenue share in 2024, fueled by the proliferation of fast-food chains, dessert-focused cafes, and the popularity of customizable frozen treats among young consumers. Domestic manufacturers are producing affordable machines tailored to local tastes, while international brands continue to enter the market with technologically advanced offerings. The integration of soft-serve machines in mall food courts, theme parks, and roadside snack shops is becoming increasingly common, propelling market growth across both tier-1 and tier-2 cities.

Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market Share

The Commercial Soft-Serve Machines industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Taylor Commercial Foodservice, LLC (U.S.)
• Spaceman Ice Systems Co., Ltd. (China)
• Stoelting Foodservice Equipment (U.S.)
• CARPIGIANI GROUP (Italy)
• Huangshi Dongbei Refrigeration Co., Ltd. (China)
• Electrolux Professional AB (Sweden)
• IREKS U.K. Ltd. ICD (U.K.)
• Guangdong Mike Cool Refrigeration Equipment Co., Ltd. (China)
• Shenzhen Oceanpower Food Equipment Tech Co., Ltd. (China)
• Electro Freeze (U.S.)
• SANISERV (U.S.)
• Ali Group S.r.l. a Socio Unico (Italy)
• Bravo North America (U.S.)
• Gram Equipment A/S (Denmark)
• Tetra Pak International S.A. (Switzerland)
• The Middleby Corporation (U.S.)
• The Vollrath Company, LLC (U.S.)
• ICETRO AMERICA, INC (U.S.)
• Donper USA (U.S.)

Latest Developments in Global Commercial Soft-Serve Machines Market

• In March 2024, Gourmia, a leader in cutting-edge countertop kitchen appliances, has announced the launch of its new SoftSnap 1-quart automatic soft-serve ice cream maker. This groundbreaking appliance will be showcased at The Inspired Home Show 2024 in booth #N8500. The SoftSnap is the world’s first all-in-one home soft-serve ice cream maker with a built-in cooling system, eliminating the need for pre-freezing bowls or adding salt and ice
• In January 2022, Carpigiani, part of the Ali Group and a global leader in equipment for fresh ice cream, gelato, and pastry, unveiled the UF920. This top-tier model is a versatile combination of soft-serve and shake machines, designed specifically for high-volume food service operations

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